—by Andrew Brawley
It's home opener week. We got lots of information to share this week. Spread the word!
Sunday: Do's and Don'ts
Monday: Tifo 101 + the National Anthem
Tuesday: Guide for First-Timers
Wednesday: Guide for Veterans
Thursday: Game day!
You’ve seen it all. You know everyone’s nicknames. You get the same seats at every match. You’ve got every chant down by memory (perhaps even wrote one or two yourself). If this were a real army, you’d be at least an Admiral. We get it…you’re kind of a big deal.
While a lot of people probably do owe you a debt of gratitude for your service over the years, we don’t want to let it go to your head. You may have been the cock-of-the-walk during the USL-era Timbers, but we’re all entering this new MLS era together on equal ground. The time to cash in those respect points has passed.
Here are a few things to keep in mind this season as we maintain our status as the best Supporters Section in American soccer:
- Growth. This is a good thing. We started in a few rows of section 107. Then we filled that section. Then we spilled out into nearby sections. Now we’re taking up the entire North End. 16 sections (101-108 & 201-208). This happened because of your hard work over the years. Thank you...now be appreciative of it.
- Experience. You’ve got bundles of it. Now you’ll be surrounded by curious newcomers who are envious of what you got. Rather than roll your eyes at them, open your arms and share it with them.
- Education. We’ve worked hard to maintain a level of integrity and originality. Rather than scold a newcomer for yelling YSA, calmly explain to them why we shun that practice. You attract more flies with honey....
- Expand. As we told the newcomers yesterday, '107' is a state of mind, not an address. You may be loyal to that section, but if you plan to continue that streak, you may want to skip the pre-funk at The Bitter End and get in line early. Most newcomers have no idea about the knife carving you left under what used to be known as "your" seat. Besides, by many accounts, the pitch position has shifted a bit. 107 might not have offer the same perspective you're used to. Change won't kill you. Be flexible.
- Respect. There was a time when you were at your first Timbers match, standing amazed and bewildered at all the chaos. Remember this when you see someone in that same boat.
- Lead. The best way to do this is by example. You know the boundaries and expectations placed upon us. Make sure the newcomers see first-hand why we are on the frontline of US soccer supporters.
Tomorrow is the day we've all been waiting for!
